The Cost of Maintaining American Fighters Burdens Iraq

A member of the Parliamentary Security Committee in Iraq, Yasser Iskander Watout, confirmed today, Friday, that the cost of maintaining Iraqi fighter jets of American origin exceeds 200 million dollars annually. Iskander stated in an interview with "Baghdad Today" that "the maintenance costs for the Iraqi Air Force's F-16 aircraft exceed 200 million dollars annually." He added that "the maintenance costs of Russian aircraft are lower, but Baghdad is facing difficulties in financing them due to Western sanctions on Moscow; however, we are moving forward in formulating solutions to ensure maintenance and return all halted aircraft to service." He pointed out that "Iraq has put in place a strategic plan to develop the air force and air defense as they are defensive weapons that constitute an important axis in enhancing the security and stability of the country and mitigating any external risks and threats," emphasizing that "Baghdad is open to many allies and friends, and there is coordination regarding enhancing its defensive military capabilities." In 2021, the American team responsible for maintaining the F-16 aircraft withdrew amidst Iraqi attempts to carry out feasible maintenance by Iraqi teams. Conversely, reports revealed Iraq's intention to purchase French aircraft or from other Russian sources instead of American fighter jets.